The Lockheed Martin Skunk Works Vectis uncrewed aircraft prototype will be powered by Williams International’s FJ44-4 turbofan engine, delivering a fast, reliable, and affordable propulsion solution for the program’s demonstrator. Skunk Works is leading an aggressive design-build-fly timeline for Vectis, with first flight targeted for 2027.
“By leveraging a mature, rugged turbofan, we can accelerate our timeline and demonstrate a game-changing capability quickly,” said Peter McArdle, Integrated Systems program director at Lockheed Martin Skunk Works. “Our vision for Vectis is bold, and we’re excited to bring it to life with speed and affordability.”
The FJ44-4 is a proven system delivering over 3,600 pounds of thrust from a compact, twin-spool architecture, enabling the aircraft to achieve the speed, range, and endurance required for next-generation missions. Skunk Works and Williams have collaborated for decades, and Vectis represents another partnership delivering critical, affordable capability at speed.
Vectis is a clean-sheet, internally funded solution designed for diverse and demanding operational threat environments, offering best-in-class survivability, lethality, and flexibility. The program builds on decades of industry-leading experience to integrate advanced, mission-focused capability at aggressive speed and cost targets.
